Pesice named Czech Republic interim coach

PRAGUE (AP) – The Czech football federation says Josef Pesice is taking over as interim coach of the Czech Republic for the remaining two World Cup qualifiers following the resignation of Michal Bilek.

Bilek resigned on Tuesday after a 2-1 defeat in Italy left the team with little chance of qualifying for Brazil.

Pesice was serving as Bilek's assistant. He will lead the team in the final two qualifiers at Malta and Bulgaria.

The 63-year-old was previously in charge of several clubs in the Czech league and led various youth national teams.